Ford Ranger Wildtrak X 2.0 Ebl 205 Dcb

from £481.38 (+ VAT) per month

Based on the standard Ford Ranger Wildtrak but using the entry-level twin-turbo 2.0-litre engine with 10-speed auto gearbox, the X stands out due to its upgraded Bilstein dampers that give it more off-road potential than the standard setup. It’s mirrored in the range by the Tremor, which gets the same suspension, but is based on the XLT model in the range. As a Wildtrak, the X gets a higher level of trim with 12in infotainment screen, leather steering wheel, part-leather heated seats, LED headlights and 17in alloys.

The Wildtrak X is also the first vehicle in the range to get access to Ford’s new party piece large item carrying solution. The sports roll hoop at the rear of the cabin on the loadbed is moveable and can be slid along the full length of the body, while the roof rail bars fold out horizontally to create a roof rack. That means that long items like ladders, or surfboards can be strapped to the hoop and roof rack, dramatically increasing the versatility of the pick-up. It’s an ingenious concept and a massive positive for the Ranger compared to its competitors.

The other changes for the Wildtrak X, however, are less noticeable. While the Bilstein dampers promise a higher level of off-roading, it’s a small percentage gain over what is already a brilliantly accomplished truck. Where the Raptor suspension is brilliantly tuned in all circumstances, coping with extreme off-roading or mundane highway driving – transforming the ride quality at both ends of the spectrum to levels unseen in the pick-up segement – the Wildtrak X doesn’t quite hit the same high notes.